Why do we get ear infections?

"Why do we get ear infections?" asked Tyler Martin, 11, a sixth-grader at Viking Middle School in Gurnee.

Chances are, you've probably had an ear infection. It's the most common illness in babies and young children, according to the National Institutes of Health.

But don't worry, ear infections are not a lifelong problem. Dr. Nancy Young, an ear specialist at Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago who is also medical director of the cochlear implant program, said it's an illness kids almost always outgrow.

"There are a number of reasons why ear infections are much more common in younger children than older children and adults," Dr. Young said.

When there is poor ventilation of the middle ear through the eustachian tube, ear infections are more likely to occur. Doctors call this kind of infection otitis media.

This tiny tube, the length of a Barbie doll's hand, links the middle ear to the throat. "In younger children, this tube is smaller and shorter. It's not as efficient," Dr. Young said.

Without proper air circulation, bacteria can grow and fluids build up in response to the infection. This causes pressure in the middle ear which may make the child uncomfortable or even experience pain.

Young children are more likely to have colds than older children or adults since the immune system is not as well developed. "It's not unusual (for kids) to get ear infections after a cold. Colds cause swelling of the upper respiratory lining and that makes the situation worse," Dr. Young said.

Fluid buildup in the middle ear can make it more difficult to hear clearly. The extra fluid can cause pain, and a temporary hearing loss. In a severe infection, the ear drum can burst and puss drains out of the ear. This actually can make the child feel better, since the pressure build up from the infection is relieved.

"Middle ear infections are often, but not always, initially treated with antibiotics," Dr. Young said.

If the infections continue to occur, there are other treatments. "Minor surgery might be needed." Doctors insert tubes in the ear drum to provide another path for ventilation. The tubes last for about a year and may need to be replaced if the infections or hearing problems still occur.

Older kids have fewer middle ear infections than younger children. However, older children are more likely to develop a different type of infection of the ear called otitis externa. "Infections in the outer ear canal are commonly called swimmer's ear. It can be painful, and needs to be treated with antibiotic ear drops." Some swimmers prevent infections by wearing special ear plugs that keep their ears dry.

Some adults may experience severe ear infection of the outer ear canal, especially adults with diabetes, a serious disease that causes health problems. "The small blood vessels aren't as healthy," Dr. Young said.

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Check these out

The Warren-Newport Public Library District in Gurnee suggests these titles on ear infections:

• "Ear Infections," by Jason Glaser

•"The Ears," by Susan H. Gray

•"Taking Care of My Ears," by Sarah L. Schuette

•"Earaches," by Dr. Alvin Silverstein, et al.

• Website: "Kids Health for Kids: What is an Ear Infection?" at kidshealth.org/kid/ill_injure/sick/ear_infection.html